Should you avoid buying a used Lexus? Why? Things to be aware of and how to choose wisely

Lexus is widely recognized as a luxury car brand, but when considering buying a used car on the used car market, some people say, “Avoid buying a used Lexus.” It is true that used Lexus cars are a luxury brand, so there are certainly some things to be aware of and some disadvantages. However, on the other hand, there are many advantages and charms that are unique to used Lexus cars. In this article, we will take a closer look at the negative opinions and concerns about used Lexus cars, as well as how to choose wisely and recommend some models.

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The appeal of used Lexus cars

Used Lexus cars are packed with high-quality materials and advanced technology. New Lexus cars are expensive, but used cars can be purchased at a relatively affordable price, making them an attractive option for many people who dream of owning a luxury car. In addition, Lexus is known for its durability and long lifespan, so a properly maintained used car can be expected to last for a long time.

Negative opinions about used Lexus cars and their reasons

Lower status: Lexus has a strong image as a luxury car brand, and some people may feel that driving a used car lowers their status. In particular, for people who are particular about new cars, the fact that it is a used car may be a point of concern.
Risk of breakdown: Although Lexus is a high-quality car, as a used car, the risk of breakdown is not zero. In particular, older used cars and used cars with high mileage tend to have a higher risk of breakdown.
Decreasing resale value: Because new car prices for Lexus are high, the price is unlikely to drop even when it becomes a used car. However, depending on the year and mileage, the resale value may drop significantly, so be careful.
Lexus Owners Card : This is a special card that only Lexus owners can have. This card offers a variety of benefits and services, making your car life as a Lexus owner even more fulfilling and comfortable. If you purchase from an authorized Lexus dealer, you will receive a Lexus Owners Card, but if you purchase from a general used car dealer, you will not receive one. You can get one by purchasing a Lexus Certified Pre-Owned (CPO) vehicle listed below .

Is it embarrassing to buy a used Lexus?

Some people say they feel guilty about buying a used Lexus, but that’s just a biased view.

The background to this way of thinking is the high brand image that Lexus has. Owning a luxury car like a Lexus is seen as a symbol of success and wealth, so many people tend to purchase it as a new car.

However, used cars have many advantages that new cars don’t have. For example, they are less expensive than new cars, so you can get the luxury car you’ve always wanted even if you have a limited budget. Maintenance costs are also often cheaper than new cars.

In some cases, used cars may require more maintenance and cost than new cars, so it is important to carefully check the condition of the vehicle when purchasing it.

Some people’s opinions

Some people are reluctant to drive a used Lexus because of its image as a luxury car.
Some people consider buying a new car a status symbol, so buying a used car is viewed negatively.

Important things

The car you choose should fit your lifestyle and values, not what other people think.
Even if it’s a used car, driving a Lexus that you like will bring you satisfaction and joy.

Things to consider when choosing a used Lexus

However, you need to be careful when purchasing a used Lexus. First of all, it is important to check the maintenance history carefully. As a luxury car, Lexus requires regular maintenance. By choosing a vehicle with a well-kept maintenance record, you can avoid any trouble after purchasing.

Here are some things to keep in mind when buying a used Lexus:

Choose a certified pre-owned car: Lexus certified pre-owned cars (CPO) are used cars that have passed the strict standards set by Lexus, and offer peace of mind in terms of quality and warranty. CPOs are a little more expensive, but are recommended for those who want to drive a used Lexus with peace of mind.
Check the condition of the vehicle thoroughly: When purchasing a used car, be sure to check the actual vehicle and thoroughly check the condition of the interior and exterior, mileage, maintenance history, etc. If possible, it is a good idea to have a trusted mechanic accompany you to the car and get advice from a professional perspective.
Check the warranty details: Used cars may come with a dealer’s own warranty or a manufacturer’s warranty. Be sure to check the warranty details and period carefully to prepare for any breakdowns that may occur.
Repairs are expensive : Lexus is a luxury car, and its parts are expensive. Therefore, repairs in the event of a breakdown can be more expensive than for an ordinary car.

Next, try to buy from a reliable dealer. Dealers and certified used car dealers that handle used Lexus cars have a strong quality guarantee and you can expect support after the purchase. Buying from private sellers or dealers with low credibility is high risk and should be avoided.

Lexus Certified Pre-Owned (CPO)

Lexus Certified Pre-Owned (CPO) cars are high-quality pre-owned cars that have been certified according to Lexus’ own unique standards. The abbreviation for Certified Pre-Owned, the aim is to provide the product quality and reliable hospitality that only Lexus can offer.

The CPO certification criteria are strict and only vehicles that have been in accidents, have a mileage of less than 100,000 km, and have never been repaired are eligible. Also, cars that have been in accidents, have high mileage, or have exceeded mileage are not eligible. Before delivery, 12 parts are replaced and more than 90 inspections and maintenance are performed, and a Lexus CPO pre-delivery confirmation sheet is issued after the inspection is completed.

Owner benefits are available for Lexus certified pre-owned vehicles (CPO)

Access to the Owners Lounge : You can enjoy a luxurious lounge in a Lexus dealership. While your car is being maintained, you can relax and unwind.
Issuance of a Lexus Owners Card : This is a special card that only Lexus owners can have, as explained above. You can use the parking lots at Lexus dealerships nationwide, and you can also use the services of the Lexus Owners Site and the Lexus Owners Desk.
Lexus Card (with credit function) : You can issue a platinum card, the Lexus Card (annual fee: 22,000 yen).

I’ve been helping restore a tenant since the morning, then I’ve been in a Lexus LC500 that someone else treated me to, and I’m in the “Owners Lounge L” at Lexus Takaoka (it seems like you can only get in if you own an LX or LC), drinking yuzu tea by myself. I’m so excited. I think I could use it for a meeting, since I always go to Komeda… #ProfessionalDoctorWhoGetsTreatspic.twitter.com /DWfPeR72Cf

— Doctor of Thoughts | Professional Doctor (@gooddr_plusa) January 12, 2024

My relatives came to visit me in Tokyo, so I showed them around the city, dropped them off at TeamLab, and then drove to Ariake

Lexus until it was time to pick them up. Just being able to relax and have tea in the owners’ lounge was an added value. pic.twitter.com/GedcdGRwBN

— Little Pippin (@nebcadnesar) August 5, 2023

Lexus CPO: What you need to know to avoid regrets

Disadvantages of Lexus CPO

High price: The price is set higher than that of a typical used car.
Limited options: You may have limited options for car models, grades, colors, etc.
Older model years: It takes time for the latest models to become available as CPOs, so you need to be careful when looking for a newer used car.
Be careful if you are participating in a fair : I have heard that if you are purchasing a car that is participating in a fair, you can only buy it at the store that sells it , and that in some cases you cannot buy it if you are from another prefecture.

Recommended models of used Lexus cars

Here are some of the best used Lexus models to choose from.

SUVs: The RX and NX are very popular and there are plenty of options available on the used car market.
Sedan: The ES and IS are models that offer a luxurious feel while still providing a sporty driving experience.
Compact cars: The LBX and UX are easy to handle and have good fuel economy, making them recommended as first Lexus models.

summary

Used Lexus cars have many advantages and charms as well as disadvantages. Please refer to the points to note and how to choose introduced in this article to find the used Lexus that is perfect for you.

Frequently asked questions and answers about Lexus

Lexus is a popular luxury car brand, but many people have various questions when considering purchasing one. Here we have compiled a list of frequently asked questions about Lexus and their answers.

How much does it cost to maintain a Lexus per year?: The annual maintenance cost of a Lexus varies depending on the model, grade, mileage, region, etc., but is roughly estimated at around 300,000 to 500,000 yen. This includes automobile tax, automobile weight tax, compulsory insurance, optional insurance, gasoline, maintenance costs, etc.
Is a Lexus a car that breaks down easily or not?: Lexus has some of the world’s best quality standards and is known for its low failure rate. On February 18, 2021 , JD Power , a US customer satisfaction research company, announced the 2021 Vehicle Dependability Study (VDS) for the US on 2021. In the brand rankings, Toyota’s Lexus took first place in the luxury car category and first place overall.
How long can a Lexus last?: Lexus is a car that you can keep driving for 10, 15 years or more . However, it is important to keep in mind regular maintenance and proper driving.
How much do you need to earn to buy a Lexus?: The annual income required to purchase a Lexus varies depending on the model and grade, payment method, whether or not you have a loan, etc. In general, it is said that you should aim for about half of your annual income . (Note: This is a guideline.)
What is the cheapest Lexus model?: The cheapest Lexus model was the CT in the past. It was a compact hatchback model, and the new car price at that time started at 3.88 million yen. Currently, the LBX starts at 4.6 million yen.
How long does it take to deliver a certified pre-owned Lexus?: The delivery period for Lexus certified used cars varies depending on the stock situation and the maintenance content, but it is about 2 weeks to 1 month. If the car is at the store, it will take about 1 to 2 weeks.
What year are Lexus certified pre-owned vehicles?: Lexus certified used cars are strictly stipulated to be vehicles that are less than seven years old since their first registration, have less than 100,000 km on the odometer, and have never been repaired.
What’s the smallest Lexus SUV?: The smallest Lexus SUV is the LBX .
How much does a new Lexus cost?: The new car price of the LM , Lexus’ top-of-the-line model , ranges from 15 million to 20 million yen.

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